The Apostle Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, is one of the most influential figures in early Christianity. His credentials, both before and after his conversion, are significant in understanding his role and message in the New Testament. However, Paul himself emphasizes the worthlessness of these credentials in comparison to the surpassing value of knowing Christ.

Background and Credentials

Paul was born in Tarsus, a city in the region of Cilicia, and was a Roman citizen by birth (Acts 22:28). He was a Jew from the tribe of Benjamin and was educated under Gamaliel, a respected Pharisee and teacher of the law (Acts 22:3). Paul describes himself as a "Hebrew of Hebrews" and a Pharisee, zealous for the traditions of his ancestors (Philippians 3:5-6). His zeal for the Jewish law was demonstrated in his initial persecution of the early Christian church (Galatians 1:13-14).

Transformation and New Perspective

Paul's encounter with the risen Christ on the road to Damascus marked a dramatic transformation in his life (Acts 9:3-6). This event led to his conversion and subsequent mission as an apostle to the Gentiles. Despite his impressive Jewish credentials, Paul came to view them as insignificant in light of his new identity in Christ.

In his letter to the Philippians, Paul articulates this shift in perspective: "But whatever was gain to me I count as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things as loss compared to the surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ" (Philippians 3:7-8). Here, Paul uses the Greek word "skubalon," often translated as "rubbish" or "dung," to describe his former credentials, emphasizing their worthlessness compared to the value of knowing Christ.

Theological Implications

Paul's rejection of his former credentials underscores a central theme in his theology: righteousness through faith in Christ rather than through the law. He writes, "And be found in Him, not having my own righteousness from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness from God on the basis of faith" (Philippians 3:9). This shift from law-based righteousness to faith-based righteousness is a cornerstone of Pauline theology and highlights the transformative power of the gospel.

Practical Application

Paul's perspective on his credentials serves as a powerful reminder to believers of the futility of relying on human achievements or status for spiritual worth. Instead, Paul encourages believers to pursue a relationship with Christ, which surpasses all earthly accomplishments. His life and writings challenge Christians to evaluate their own priorities and to find their identity and worth in Christ alone.

Conclusion

Paul's credentials, once a source of pride and identity, became worthless in his pursuit of Christ. His life exemplifies the transformative power of the gospel and the call to find true righteousness and identity in Jesus. Through his writings, Paul continues to inspire believers to prioritize their relationship with Christ above all else.